Hardangervidda National park from Geilo and the North East side

GEILO – Gateway to Hardangervidda and Hallingskarvet National Parks

Geilo is a national park village that serves as the gateway to two of Norway's most spectacular national parks: the vast Hardangervidda National Park and the majestic Hallingskarvet National Park. Located in Hol municipality, Geilo lies in the valley between these two natural gems. Whether you prefer short or short or longer day hikes or multi-day adventures with overnight stays, Geilo is the perfect base—ideal for those planning to cross the entire Hardangervidda plateau. Strategically situated at the meeting point of Hallingdal and Numedal, Geilo offers numerous starting points for both hiking and cycling in both valleys.

Hardangervidda National Park

Hardangervidda National Park spans parts of Buskerud, Vestfold and Telemark, and Vestland counties and is the largest mountain plateau in Northern Europe. The eastern side is characterized by flat, open plains, while the west features more rugged terrain. Here, you can enjoy year-round hiking, fishing, and hunting. The summer season typically starts in late June when the snow melts, but it's essential to check trail conditions (only in Norwegian) to ensure that summer bridges are in place. During winter from December to Mai, marked ski trails lead to DNT cabins, and trail reports (only in Norwegian) are available at www.dnt.no. There is often more information on the Norwegian websites, use a translate program to get the most out of it. 

Need a map or a DNT key? Geilo Tourist Information offers both for sale. Visit us at the Travel Center in Geilo town center or contact us at +47 32 09 59 00. For more details, visit www.geilo.com. Keys can also be purchased at DNT shops in Oslo, Bergen, Stavanger, or online. Most staffed DNT cabins also sell keys for the self-service and unstaffed cabins.

TRANSPORT to Geilo

Train:
Geilo is easily accessible by train both from Oslo and Bergen via the Bergen Line, operated by Vy. Enjoy the scenic journey as the train climbs through Hallingdal. Upon arrival in Geilo, you'll find a variety of accommodations and shops for any last-minute supplies. The sport shops are open Monday to Saturday from aout 10:00 to 17:00/16:00. The supermarkets in Geilo are open every day from about 08:00 to 21:00 (shorter during the weekend)

There are also train stations at Ustaoset, with one supermarket and at Haugastøl, with some small shopping options at Haugastøl Turistsenter. Check the opening hours of both places when planning doing some groceries here.

Bus:

Brakar operates buses throughout Hallingdal: Route 334 to Haugastøl and Rallarvegen, Route 333 (school bus) to Dagali, Route 330 eastward to Gol. Routes in Numedal include: Route 420 toward Kongsberg. Buy a ticket on the website, in the app, in line 330 and line 420 you can also pay by card.

Note: The Tuva bus will be discontinued from 2024.

Skyss Bus 991 runs to Eidfjord over road 7 with one to two daily departures during the summer month. You can order a ticket online, in the app or in the bus by card. 

Boat:
Take the Halnekongen boat from Halnefjellstugu along Highway 7 to experience Hardangervidda from the water or to start your hike directly in the heart of the plateau.

Summer Lift:
During peak season, the Summer Lift in Vestlia offers an easy way to gain elevation. Operated by SkiGeilo, it's conveniently located near Hakkesetstølen Fjellstue.

Car:
Highway 7 from both Oslo and Bergen is the most direct route to Geilo. Keep in mind that Hardangervidda may experience convoy driving or closures in winter. Check road signs and updates via the Statens Vedvesen website or app. Alternatively, take County Road 40 through Numedal for stunning viewpoints. Note that Imningsfjell Road (FV2814) from Austbygde to Bjørkeflåte is closed during winter.

Toll Roads & Parking Geilo/ Hardangervidda:

In Norway, many private mountain roads have tolls used for road maintenance. Increasingly, these roads offer automated toll payment options via websites within 48 hours. Look for signs at road entrances for specific instructions.

Dagali, Seterdalen – Toll payment via parkpay.no. Winter closure.
Skurdalen, Tuva – Toll payment via youpark.no (no camper vans allowed). Winter closure.
Geilo, Hakkesetstølen – Toll and parking fees (max 6 hours) payable via Vipps or at the mountain lodge. Open year-round.
Geilo Train Station – The only long-term parking in Geilo is on the north side of the station (Onepark.no).
Ustaoset, Joker Store – Day parking available, pay at the kiosk.
Ustaoset, Verpestølvegen – Toll payment via card or Vipps, open from June 1 to November 15.
Haugastøl Train Station – Parking for train passengers.
Haugastøl, Rallarvegen – Toll and parking fees. Winter closure.
Dyranut, Tinnhøl – Toll payment by card. Winter closure.

CYCLING ROUTES - come to Geilo by bike

If you're traveling from Southern Norway, you can follow National Cycle Route 5 through the scenic Numedal Valley. At Rødberg, you have three route options:

Smådøldalen: Ideal for nature enthusiasts who want to avoid traffic. This picturesque gravel road winds through the forest, offering a peaceful and serene experience. Highly recommended.

Tunhovd: Prefer asphalt? Cycle toward Tunhovd road 2806 on a quiet, low-traffic road, then continue to Dagali.

County Road 40: If you're looking for a faster route, stay on County Road 40 and follow Cycle Route 5 north. Be prepared for steep climbs and moderate traffic.

You can also choose the National Cycle Route 4 leading you up through the Hallingdal Valley. 

From Geilo to Rallarvegen
To experience the iconic Rallarvegen, we recommend taking the train from Geilo to Haugastøl for a safer and more comfortable ride. However, if you prefer cycling the entire way, you can follow Highway 7 for 28 km. Be aware of heavy traffic and a high number of tourists on this route. For safety, wear bright clothing, use reflectors, and set your bike lights to flashing mode for better visibility.

Hallingdal Route and Mjølkevegen
For another scenic option, follow National Cycle Route 4 along Highway 7 through Hallingdal. If you're seeking an alternative to Rallarvegen, try Mjølkevegen from Geilo. This route offers stunning landscapes and less traffic, perfect for those looking for a varied and enjoyable cycling experience.

SUMMER on Hardangervidda

Hiking - Discover the heart of nature

Hiking is the most popular activity on Hardangervidda—and for good reason! The area offers a wide range of trails, from easy day hikes to challenging expeditions over several days. From Geilo, you can take the summer lift to your first mountain cabin or combine your hike with a boat trip. Families will find many well-marked day hikes, while experienced hikers can tackle Ustetind, rewarded with spectacular views of both national parks.

For detailed hiking suggestions and inspiration, visit geilo.com and select "Hiking/Trail Suggestions" from the menu. You’ll find an interactive map from Outdoor Active where you can download trail descriptions, GPX files, and elevation profiles.

It’s possible to reach Hardangervidda without a car, though some planning is required. Buses and trains offer good alternatives, especially if you plan for an overnight stay along the way.

The hiking season typically runs from late June until the first snow. Check the opening times of the mountain cabins at ut.no.

Water from streams and lakes is safe to drink. Keep your phone on airplane mode to save battery, as there are areas with limited mobile coverage. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times. Respect the reindeer, stick to marked trails, and follow Norway’s Right to Roam (Allemannsretten). For weather forecast you can use yr.no website and app.

Cycling - Adventure on two wheels

Hardangervidda offers fantastic cycling opportunities both to and on the plateau. Popular mountain roads include: 

Seterdalen, along the Numedalslågen river, blending farmland with highland terrain.
The road to Tuva Turisthytte, offering panoramic views of the national parks.
The route to Verpestølen, featuring great swimming spots at Ustevatnet.
Tinnhølen, a scenic destination deep into the plateau.

Cycling is only permitted on tractor roads—cycling on trails is prohibited. During wet conditions or early in the season, avoid cycling to protect the environment.
 

Fishing - Cast your line into serenity

Hardangervidda is home to numerous excellent fishing lakes. Around Geilo, Ustedalsfjorden is easily accessible, and several idyllic mountain lakes are located near Haugastøl. Fishing permits can be purchased through perfish.no from Geilo Hunting and Fishing Association.

If you plan to fish deeper into Hardangervidda, research fishing opportunities in advance and purchase permits via inatur.no (use the map function for easier surch) or at staffed mountain cabins. Some cabins sell permits for private waters in the area. Note that the fishing season ends on September 30 to allow the fish to spawn undisturbed.

There is often more information on the Norwegian websites, use a translate program to get the most out of it. 

Other Activities - Thrills beyond the trails

Looking for something beyond hiking and cycling? The Hardangervidda region offers a variety of exciting activities, including: Guided hikes and cycling tours, Rafting, Canyoning and Horseback riding. For a complete overview of summer activities, visit geilo.com.

WINTER in the Hardangervidda

Winter on Hardangervidda is a magical experience stretching from late October to early June, depending on the weather. Although snow often falls early, conditions are most stable from mid-February. Snow can last until May, and in some years, you might even ski in June! Before heading out, check snow conditions on the DNT website or contact the mountain cabins directly. Statens Vegvesen webcams also provide real-time snow conditions.

Snowshoeing – Freedom to Explore

Snowshoeing is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the winter landscape. There are no marked trails—walk where you please and carve your own path through the snow. You can find some suggestions for walks on the interactive map in the lower part of this side. For a true adventure, pack firewood and a tent, strap on a headlamp, and spend the night under the stars. No prior experience is needed, and snowshoes can be rented from Slaatta Skisenter or Geilo Aktiv. For guided tours, visit geilo.com for exciting options.

Cross-Country Skiing – Magical Trails Across the Plateau

For cross-country skiing enthusiasts, Geilo offers an extensive trail network. One popular Hardangervidda loop is Veslerunden, starting from Geilo and leading to Hakkesetstølen. Alternatively, take the Vestlia chairlift, continue to Grønebakken, head towards Ustetind, then descend to Ustaoset before returning to Geilo via Prestholt. This route offers a perfect blend of challenge and breathtaking views of both national parks. For updated trail conditions, visit skisporet.no or follow local trail groups on Facebook for news and photos. There are several options for lessons and rental in Geilo for example with Geilo Skiskole and Geilo Aktiv. 

Backcountry Skiing – Cabin-to-Cabin in a Winter Wonderland

The quintessential Hardangervidda winter experience is ski touring between mountain cabins along marked winter trails. The snow-covered plateau stretches endlessly ahead, and a warm meal and cozy bed await at each hut. This adventure is suited for experienced skiers—proper clothing, maps, compass, food, and water are essential. Check snow conditions on the DNT website and cabin opening times on ut.no.

Backcountry skis can be rented at Geilo Skishop, conveniently located near the train station by Dr. Holms Hotel. The season runs from mid-April until Easter. 

Fatbiking – Cycling on Snow

Ever tried cycling on snow? Fatbikes let you glide across winter terrain with their wide tires, perfect for navigating snowy surfaces without leaving deep tracks. Around Geilo, you can explore walking paths, cabin roads, and plowed mountain roads. Vestlia offers special trails designed for fatbiking. You can rent a bike or join a guided tour.

To respect the groomed cross-country trails, follow these tips:

Deflate your tires slightly to reduce your impact.
Wait at least an hour after grooming machines have passed.
Be considerate—skiers don’t expect a fast, silent bike on the trail.
Thank you for respecting the trails and your fellow users!

Dogsledding - Follow the tracks in the snow

Nothing is more exotic than driving your own dog sedge trough the winter lanscape. Feel the power of the dogs and the wind in your face. There are several companies offer both shorter and longer tours in Geilo and later in the season on the Hardangervidda.

MORE INFORMATION

Interested in visiting? Head to www.geilo.com for details on accommodation, activities, and more.

Source: Visit Geilo and Outdoor Active Travel Guide Geilo/Hardangervidda.